REOPENING UPDATE

On Thursday evening we learned that dental practices are able to open their doors again to seeing patients from June 8th. Whilst this is very welcome news to us all, we found out at the same time as everyone else.

We appreciate that we have many patients eager to be seen to continue their orthodontic treatment, and we cannot thank you enough for being patient and understanding with the team during this time.

Throughout the closure we have been working hard, following Government guidelines to implement safer measures into the practice. We are now awaiting the finer details that will be set out by the NHS and the Chief Dental Officer so that we can ensure, as always, we are treating you in the safest way possible and compliant with all regulations.

Whilst our doors are set to open soon, it will not be business as usual, and there will be many changes in place for the safety and well being of our patients and staff. We will update you on a guide to the changes as soon as possible.

We will contact all of our patients as soon as we are able to schedule appointments, we will be prioritising those patients who are experiencing problems with their orthodontic appliances. Over the coming days, patient records will be assessed by our team and the booking of appointments will be based on clinical need.

FAQ

Your dentist has referred you to an orthodontist because they feel that there is a problem with the development of your teeth or jaws.

Q Do I still need to see my dentist?

You will still need to attend your dentist for routine check-ups and if necessary your dentist will carry out any extractions. All of your brace treatment will be done at our specialist practice.

Q At what age should I have braces?

Most orthodontic treatment with fixed braces is done when all of the adult teeth have erupted into the mouth. For the majority of patients, this is usually around age 12 or 13. However, treatment is sometimes done at an earlier stage with removable or simple fixed braces if there is a developing problem with the way your teeth bite together. Some orthodontic treatment is dependant on the growth of the jaws and therefore is best done around age 11-14 in girls and about 12-14 in boys.

Q Can orthodontic treatment be done on adult patients?

Yes. Orthodontic treatment can be carried out at any age. With the development of more cosmetic fixed braces or clear aligners, more and more adults are undergoing treatment.

Q Will I have to pay for orthodontic treatment?

Patients under 18 years of age who are eligible for treatment under the NHS Regulations will receive their treatment and a year of retention supervision free of charge. Patients who are over 18 years of age or who do not qualify for treatment under the NHS regulations will have to pay privately for their treatment- see price guide.

Q Will my brace hurt?

Fitting of a brace is completely painless. There is no drilling of the teeth involved and the brackets are simply ‘glued’ on to the teeth. As the teeth start to move over the next 2-3 days they will be a bit tender to bite on and the sensation is felt like a small ‘bruise’ on the tooth. The pain can be alleviated with painkillers. Initially the brace may rub the inside of the cheek and lips but this is usually only for the first week or so. We will advise you to buy some special wax to alleviate this problem

Q Will I have to have teeth removed?

Teeth will only be extracted if absolutely necessary to give the ideal result eg where the teeth are very crowded. Using modern wires and brackets has significantly reduced the necessity to remove teeth and, if appropriate, we may recommend re-shaping or ‘slenderising’ the teeth as an alternative to extractions.

Q Will the brace affect my speech?

Removable braces or functional braces will make you lisp for the first few days when fitted. This is usually not noticeable after a week or so

Q How long do I need to wear braces for?

An average course of orthodontic treatment takes about 18 months to 2 years. However, with the use of modern brackets and wires our treatment times have been significantly reduced. The length of treatment depends on the complexity of each individual’s treatment plan

Q How often do I need to attend for appointments?

Braces are usually adjusted to every 6-8 weeks. However if you have problems with your brace before this next appointment we have an emergency slot between 12.30 and 1pm each day for NHS patients. Please telephone to arrange this appointment.

Q Can I play contact sports?

Yes but we do recommend that you use a preformed gum shield which we sell at our reception. We strongly recommend that you have a custom made gum shield made once your braces have been removed and this can be arranged with our orthodontists.

Q Can I still play musical instruments?

Yes but you will notice that you will have to modify your technique slightly once the brace has been fitted and then again after it has been removed. We advise that you do not have braces fitted or removed close to an important concert or exam.

Q What are retainers?

At the end of your orthodontic treatment you will be provided with a clear plastic removable brace to keep your teeth in position. This needs to be worn for 2 days full time and after this every night for at least the first year. However, since research has shown that teeth do continue to move during your lifetime, we advise that you continue to wear your retainers for 2-3 nights a week long term. These usually need to be replaced about every 5 years or sooner if they become worn.

Q What do I do if I have a problem with my brace?

If you are concerned about any aspect of your treatment, please telephone our reception and one of our support staff will be able to offer you advice. We have an emergency service every day between 12.30- 1pm for problems such as a brace rubbing or if your brace breaks. You must telephone for an appointment

Testimonials

Featured Articles

"Staff are absolutely lovely, felt really comfortable when coming for my appointments. I was treated really well and my treatment worked exactly how I wanted it to. "

S Waddington

I decided to treat myself to Invisalign last year for my 40th birthday. I was a little apprehensive but from the very first visit I have never looked back and now after a very quick 18 months, I am delighted with the results. Thank you for making me feel at ease ad perfecting my smile.

D Barraclough

"It makes a refreshing change to visit a very professional practice with a very welcoming environment. We have always been dealt with in a friendly efficient manner whenever we have made visits to St Michaels. The transformation to my daughter’s teeth is amazing. It has not only changed the way she looks, but has given her more confidence and has made her want to SMILE! We will be forever grateful. Thank you so much "

T & O Rowley

Really pleased with the results of my treatment especially as it has only taken 12 months. I would definitely recommend St Michaels and Invisalign. The treatment was pain free and had little impact on my day to day life (in terms of wearing braces)

R Ward

"The treatment Lauren received has been brilliant. It has changed her confidence levels and given her beautiful teeth. I’d fully recommend this surgery."

L Dale

I now have a lovely smile to show off! Fantastic treatment and service throughout. Really pleased with the results of my Invisalign treatment. Definitely recommend to others. Thank you to all at St Michaels.

N Goodair

Being able to smile without being conscious of showing my teeth has changed my life. I feel confident and happy.

L O’Sullivan

I cannot thank St Michaels enough for the work I had done. Going down the Invisalign path was definitely the best option for me. All the work was carried out in a very professional manner but I was also greeted by a warm, friendly staff who made me feel very welcome. Invisalign is definitely worth the money and I couldn’t recommend it enough.

E Fabricius

I had a really good experience with St Michaels. Staff were really nice and always helpful. Very glad I had Invisalign treatment. It has really boosted my confidence having a nice smile. Wish I had just done is sooner.

What Orthodontics Can Do

opening hours

Mon

9.00 - 1.00

2.00 - 5.30

Tues

9.00 - 1.00

2.00 - 5.30

Wed

9.00 - 1.00

2.30 - 7.00

Thurs

9.00 - 1.00

2.00 - 6.30

Fri

8.15 - 1.00

2.00 - 4.15

Testimonials

“ I have been absolutely thrilled with the results of my orthodontic treatment. The results of my treatment have ultimately
exceeded my expectations. A huge thank you to all the staff at St Michaels especially Catherine for transforming my dracula-like teeth into the smile I have now ”
Sumera Monir